OPINION:
Social-justice warriors and religious leaders should stop misusing the word of God to justify lawless behavior (“Suddenly, the left loves Leviticus,” Web, June 24).
The Bible clearly documents respect for national borders. Moses was an immigrant who was on a mission from God — literally. He was leading the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt to the Promised Land far, far away. He had entire families, including women and children, with him on the trek.
Just how many people were migrating with Moses? Exodus 12:37 says there were “about 600,000 men” who were able-bodied and fit for military duty. Counting the women, children and elderly, the total number of sojourners seeking a better life was about 2.4 million.
Moses requested permission from the King of Edom to pass through that country. Moses promised that none of his horde would try to settle there. They only wanted to pass through on their way to the Promised Land.
“But he [the King of Edom] said, “You shall not pass through.” And Edom came out against them with a large army and with a strong force.” (Numbers 20:20)
Moses did not say, “You must welcome the stranger and give us cups of cold water. I have children with me so I am coming in anyway!” He obeyed the government authorities and took the longer but lawful path to his God-ordained destination. He trusted God, not the government of Edom, to make a pathway for them.
CHEREE CALABRO
Valparaiso, Ind.
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